Apparatus and method for stapling graft material to a blood vessel wall while preserving the patency of orifices

Abstract

The present invention is comprised of an apparatus for stapling graft material to a vessel wall comprising a stapling device, a balloon catheter, a sheath, and an inflation means.

I claim: 
     
       1. An apparatus for stapling graft material to a vessel wall comprising in combination: a stapling device, said stapling device comprising an expandable member and a tube, said tube having a proximal end and a central lumen, said expandable member being integrally connected to said proximal end of said tube, said expandable member further having an upper surface and a stapling surface which are integrally connected to define a closed, substantially hollow structure, said hollow structure communicating with said central lumen of said tube;   a balloon catheter, said balloon catheter being configured for insertion through said central lumen of said tube and into said expandable member for activation of said stapling device; and   an inflation means for inflating said balloon catheter.   
     
     
       2. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said stapling surface comprises one or more capsules; a magnetic coil within each capsule; and a means for applying and releasing a magnetic charge to said coil.   
     
     
       3. An apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said means for applying and releasing a magnetic charge to said coil comprises a conductive wire in contact with said magnetic coils within each capsule. 
     
     
       4. An apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said tube further comprises an inner surface and an outer surface, and said wire passes between said inner surface and said outer surface. 
     
     
       5. An apparatus according to claim 2 further comprising one or more pins positioned within each capsule. 
     
     
       6. An apparatus according to claim 5 wherein said one or more pins are comprised of a head and insertion portion; said insertion portion having a proximal and distal end; said proximal end of said insertion portion integral with said head; said distal end of said insertion portion in a hook shape for affixing said pin in position after deployment. 
     
     
       7. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said upper surface is stretchable. 
     
     
       8. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said balloon catheter comprises a proximal end, an inflatable/deflatable balloon integral with said proximal end, a first lumen for passing said balloon catheter over a guide wire, and a second lumen in fluid communication with said balloon. 
     
     
       9. An apparatus according to claim 1 where said inflation means is a syringe. 
     
     
       10. An apparatus according to claim 1 further comprising a sheath. 
     
     
       11. An apparatus according to claim 10 wherein said sheath is retractable. 
     
     
       12. An apparatus according to claim 11 wherein said sheath is comprised of a fillable space and a ring.